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When serious allegations arise in care proceedings, the impact can be overwhelming. It is important that anyone alleged to have caused harm to a child receives strong legal representation and sensitive support. Our specialist Family Law team can provide such support. In this case, our client – joined as an intervenor where the local authority sought findings of sexual abuse – successfully challenged the allegations. After a 15-day fact-finding hearing involving both King’s Counsel and Junior Counsel, no findings of sexual abuse were made against him.
Our client was the neighbour and former partner of a mother whose child was the subject of care proceedings. Through his relationship with the mother, he had occasional contact with her child.
During those proceedings, the child made a number of allegations of sexual abuse against family members. Later, an allegation was also made against our client. The local authority sought findings that the allegations were true and that he had caused sexual harm to the child.
Our client denied the allegations completely. The matter was listed for a 15-day fact-finding hearing in the family court.
Our client had vulnerabilities, including cognitive challenges and a physical disability requiring him to use a wheelchair. These factors made it particularly important to ensure he was supported throughout the process and could participate fully in the proceedings.
Given the seriousness of the allegations, we instructed King’s Counsel (KC) as leading counsel and an experienced Junior Counsel (JC) to represent our client, alongside Lauren Beldom of Fosters’ Family & Children team, who attended each day of the hearing. This ensured our client had a strong and coordinated team.
To meet his additional needs, we arranged an intermediary assessment, which confirmed he would benefit from intermediary support throughout the hearing and in conferences. This ensured that he understood the proceedings and could communicate effectively with his legal team.
We worked closely with both Counsel to take detailed instructions and prepare a full statement. All evidence relevant to his position was gathered and shared promptly, ensuring Counsel had the information needed to represent him effectively.
The court directed the disclosure of extensive evidence, including school records, police material, and statements from all parties. As further information emerged, we acted quickly to have additional evidence admitted that supported our client’s case – particularly evidence suggesting that professionals had introduced his name during discussions with the child, which may have influenced the allegation.
Recognising the client’s mobility challenges, we also obtained Legal Aid Agency funding for daily taxi transport to and from court. This practical support ensured he could attend and give evidence comfortably and without added stress.
Throughout the hearing, our client was supported by his full legal team and intermediary, who ensured that he was heard and understood at every stage.
After 15 days of evidence and legal submissions, the court delivered its judgment. The Judge made no findings of sexual abuse against our client and removed him from the pool of alleged perpetrators.
Reflecting on this case, our Associate Solicitor, Lauren Beldom said: “This was an excellent outcome for our client which brought him considerable relief, having faced an extremely difficult and emotional process. The result reflected the detailed preparation, close collaboration with Counsel, and proactive approach we took throughout the case.”
Being joined as an intervenor in care proceedings can be highly stressful, especially when allegations of harm or abuse are made. Prompt legal advice is essential to protect your rights and ensure your case is properly presented.
At Fosters Solicitors, our Family & Children team has significant experience representing individuals in complex care proceedings, including intervenors facing serious allegations. We provide clear, practical advice and ensure that clients are supported both legally and personally.
We also recognise that some clients have additional vulnerabilities, and we work to secure appropriate support, such as intermediaries or specialist arrangements, to help them fully engage in their case.
If you are facing similar circumstances, contact our team for confidential advice. We are here to guide you with expertise, compassion, and understanding every step of the way.
Contact us for more information.
Find out more about what an intervenor means in our Insights article.
